Non engaged addicts are tired of discussing their feelings. Many are uncomfortable with traditional talk therapy. This is seen in teens and young adults. This population does not want to be the focus of attention when faced with a new authority figure such as a therapist.

To engage this population and decrease relapse rates, many recovery centers are turning towards non-traditional therapies.

Types of Music Therapy

Receptive music therapy involves listening to music. This can be done with other therapies or as a solo exercise. A licensed music therapist may play music thought to evoke anger and then ask the client to journal or draw their feelings while listening. This is a great way to open a dialogue without forcing the client to speak about difficult subjects.

Active music therapy uses direct engagement with music. This can be through singing, songwriting, playing an instrument, or improving. There need not be any music skills before the therapy. Music is a way to express one’s emotions without judgement.

Therapists have found that those resistant to traditional talk therapy will open with music therapy. The recovering addict can focus on something external which allows him or her the ability to relax. This is a great method to build trust between the therapist and client. The therapist will watch for non-verbal cues as the client interacts with music either receptively or actively.

Benefits of Music Therapy

There are many benefits of engaging in music therapy.

Music therapy is flexible.

It can be an individual or group activity.

Music therapy is mobile.

It can be used in a variety of setting. Perfect for a trip to the beach!

Music therapy reduces stress.

Music therapy encourages creativity.

Music therapy can help reduce or manage pain.

Music Therapy lowers the heart rate and blood pressure.

This is critical for those who are detoxing.

Music therapy helps to ease insomnia.

Music therapy encourages learning.

This is helpful for learning new practices such as the 12-step program or mindfulness.

Music Therapy Helps Treat Multiple Disorders

Aside from treating addiction to substances, music therapy treats the following disorders:

Anxiety

Depression

PTSD

Grief

Loss

Lack of self-esteem

Insomnia

Chronic and acute pain

Without addressing the underlying causes of addiction the recovering addict is likely to relapse. Treating these disorders is a precursor to long-term sobriety. Music therapy is an effective tool to see aspects of oneself clearly for the first time. And it gives the recovering addict an outlet to turn to when faced with the effects of underlying disorders.

If you or a loved one is in need of recovery and are interested in music therapy, click here for more information. Or call Aion Recovery at 888-811-2879. Insurance plans may cover the cost if prescribed by your physician.